Arabesque Artware Hand-Wrought Aluminum Rectangular Tray
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter) · Arabesque Artware (often associated with the Philadelphia area and various giftware distributors like Princess)
Pattern: Arabesque Artware; typically non-patterned or minimalist Mid-Century giftware
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter)
Maker
Arabesque Artware (often associated with the Philadelphia area and various giftware distributors like Princess)
Material
Hand-Wrought Aluminum; contains no silver content. Often referred to as "Poor Man's Silver" during the mid-20th century.
Dimensions
Approximately 10-12 inches in length; very lightweight compared to silver (aluminum has a much lower density than sterling silver).
Description
This is a classic piece of Mid-Century 'Hand Wrought Aluminum' giftware. Marketed as a durable, affordable alternative to silver, these pieces were popular for wedding gifts. The rectangular tray features a clean, utilitarian design typical of the 1950s domestic kitchen aesthetic.
Key Features
Characteristic greyish-blue hue of aluminum, lightweight feel, and the distinctive blue 'Arabesque' foil sticker on the reverse.
Material & Composition
Hand-Wrought Aluminum; contains no silver content. Often referred to as "Poor Man's Silver" during the mid-20th century.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-brushed finish with a plain, unadorned surface. Features a raised, simple rectangular border with slightly flared edges. Minimalist Mid-Century Modern aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No metal stamps (e.g., Sterling or 925) exist because it is aluminum. It bears a paper/foil label in blue and white stating "Arabesque" and "Hand Wrought."
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or hand-hammered aluminum sheet. The edges are rolled or smoothed. Hand-wrought indicates manual finishing rather than total hand-forging.
Functional Features
Lightweight serving surface; corrosion-resistant and does not require polishing like silver. Designed for casual hosting.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated flared rim functions as a continuous grip; no separate handles or attachments.
Craftsmanship Details
Basic metal spinning or pressing with manual finishing. Unlike higher-end aluminum makers, this piece lacks decorative chasing or representative motifs.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of silver hallmarks and the presence of the original brand sticker identify this as aluminum rather than silver or silver plate. The metal does not tarnish black like silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; likely mass-produced in a giftware workshop for department store distribution.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (Post-WWII Era, c. 1940s-1950s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1960. The font and style of the foil label are characteristic of this period.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the shift in mid-20th-century American households toward informal entertaining and 'easy-care' materials that did not require the labor of polishing silver.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair. Surface shows heavy 'spider-web' scratching and scuffs from aggressive use or cleaning. Aluminum is a soft metal and scratches easily. Foil label is partially torn and faded.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. Value is low due to the commonality of the material and the significant surface scratching.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Do not use silver polish as it is unnecessary. Avoid abrasive pads which will worsen the existing scratches. Never place in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Wendell August Forge, Rodney Kent, and Arthur Armour are more collectible brands of hand-wrought aluminum with more intricate repoussé designs.
Interesting Facts
During WWII, aluminum was a strategic metal; following the war, manufacturers pivoted to create consumer 'artware' like this to utilize production capacity.